This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Yes, you can transplant arborvitae in spring.
Spring is actually one of the best seasons to transplant arborvitae when conditions are right.
Transplanting arborvitae in spring gives these evergreens a head start because the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
If you’ve been asking yourself whether you can transplant arborvitae in spring without damaging the tree, the answer is yes with careful timing and proper technique.
Many homeowners successfully transplant arborvitae in spring every year with excellent results.
In this post, we’ll cover why you can transplant arborvitae in spring, the best timing for transplanting arborvitae in spring, how to do it step by step, and common mistakes to avoid when you transplant arborvitae in spring.
Let’s dig in.
Why You Can Transplant Arborvitae in Spring
Transplanting arborvitae in spring works so well because of several natural factors that align in your favor.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, you’re working with the tree instead of against it.
1. Dormancy Breaks at the Perfect Time
Arborvitae exit dormancy gradually in early spring.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring just as dormancy breaks, the tree is ready to grow but not yet fully active.
This reduces transplant shock significantly compared to moving it in summer.
The roots can begin establishing in the new location while the top growth is still slow.
That’s a major reason why transplanting arborvitae in spring is so effective for long-term health.
2. Cool Soil Encourages Root Development
Soil temperatures in spring are cool but not cold.
This is ideal for root development after transplanting arborvitae in spring.
Warm summer soil can stress new roots, but spring soil is gentle on them.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, the roots have weeks of favorable soil conditions to spread out and anchor the tree.
3. Spring Rainfall Reduces Your Workload
One of the biggest challenges after transplanting arborvitae in spring is keeping the soil moist.
Spring naturally provides consistent rainfall in most regions.
This means you won’t have to water as often as you would in summer.
Transplanting arborvitae in spring takes advantage of nature’s irrigation system for better establishment.
4. Lower Evaporation Rates Help the Tree
Cool spring air means slower evaporation from leaves.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, the tree loses less water through transpiration.
This reduces the demand on the root system while it’s still recovering from the move.
That’s another key reason transplanting arborvitae in spring leads to higher survival rates.
Best Timing to Transplant Arborvitae in Spring
Timing is everything when you transplant arborvitae in spring.
Getting the timing right can mean the difference between a thriving tree and a struggling one.
1. Early Spring Is the Ideal Window
The best time to transplant arborvitae in spring is as soon as the ground thaws but before new growth emerges.
In most climates, this falls between late March and mid-April.
At this stage, the tree is still mostly dormant, so transplant shock is minimal.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring during this window, the roots have weeks to establish before the canopy fills out.
This gives the tree a strong foundation for the growing season ahead.
2. Mid to Late Spring Can Work With Extra Care
If you need to transplant arborvitae in spring later in the season, it’s still possible.
By May, the tree is actively growing and temperatures are warmer.
This increases stress on the plant, but with diligent watering and some shade, you can still succeed.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring during late spring, expect to water more frequently and watch for signs of wilting.
3. Check Your Local Weather Before Moving
Before you transplant arborvitae in spring, check the 10-day forecast.
Avoid transplanting if a hard frost is predicted.
Also, avoid transplanting during a rainy stretch that leaves the soil waterlogged.
Transplanting arborvitae in spring works best when soil is moist but not muddy.
How to Transplant Arborvitae in Spring Successfully
Knowing how to properly transplant arborvitae in spring will set you up for success.
Follow these steps carefully when you transplant arborvitae in spring.
1. Prepare the New Location First
Dig the new hole before you lift the tree.
The hole should be two to three times wider than the root ball but exactly the same depth.
Wider holes allow roots to spread easily into the surrounding soil.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, a properly prepared hole prevents settling and root suffocation.
Amend the removed soil with compost if your native soil is poor.
2. Dig a Generous Root Ball
Arborvitae have fibrous, shallow roots that spread wide.
Dig at least 10 to 12 inches away from the trunk for every inch of trunk diameter.
Keep the root ball as intact as possible by cutting cleanly through roots with a sharp spade.
The more soil you keep around the roots when you transplant arborvitae in spring, the better the tree will recover.
3. Transport and Place Carefully
Lift the tree by the root ball, not the trunk.
Move it to the new hole and set it at the same depth it was growing before.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, it’s crucial to keep the root ball level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
Backfill with the amended soil and firm it gently around the roots.
Avoid packing the soil too tightly as roots need oxygen.
4. Water Deeply and Apply Mulch
Water the tree thoroughly right after transplanting arborvitae in spring.
Deep watering settles the soil and removes air pockets around the roots.
Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, mulching helps retain moisture and moderates soil temperature.
Water deeply once or twice a week for the first few months unless rainfall is sufficient.
Common Mistakes When You Transplant Arborvitae in Spring
Avoid these errors when you transplant arborvitae in spring to ensure your tree thrives.
1. Planting Too Deep
This is the most common mistake.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, the top of the root ball should be at or slightly above ground level.
Planting too deep restricts oxygen flow to the roots and encourages rot.
If the root ball is buried, the tree will decline slowly over the season.
2. Overwatering in Heavy Soil
While moisture is important, soggy soil is deadly.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring into clay soil, be especially careful about overwatering.
Clay drains slowly and can drown the roots if you water too often.
Check the soil moisture a few inches down before watering when you transplant arborvitae in spring.
3. Fertilizing Too Soon
Do not fertilize immediately after transplanting arborvitae in spring.
Fertilizer can burn new roots that are still getting established.
Wait at least one full growing season before applying any fertilizer.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, the focus should be on root establishment, not growth stimulation.
4. Ignoring Wind Exposure
Newly transplanted arborvitae are vulnerable to wind damage.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, choose a location that offers some wind protection.
If the spot is exposed, consider staking the tree for the first season.
Wind can dry out the foliage faster than the recovering roots can supply water.
So, Can You Transplant Arborvitae in Spring?
Yes, you can transplant arborvitae in spring.
Spring is actually one of the most reliable seasons for transplanting arborvitae when done correctly.
Transplanting arborvitae in spring works because of cool temperatures, natural rainfall, and the tree’s own growth cycle.
When you transplant arborvitae in spring, aim for early spring, prepare the hole well, dig a wide root ball, and water consistently.
Avoid common mistakes like planting too deep, overwatering, or fertilizing too soon.
Whether you’re moving a single specimen or a row of privacy trees, transplanting arborvitae in spring gives you the best chance of success.
Hope this post has answered your question about whether you can transplant arborvitae in spring and given you the confidence to do it yourself.